Undergraduate Programs

Why Study Psychology?

The study of psychology helps students gain a deeper understanding of the human condition. Why do people act the way they do? What is the human brain capable of? What shapes our personality? How do we learn and change throughout our life? The mission of the Department of Psychology undergraduate program is to educate students about the major research findings and theories in the field of Psychology and to train them to use an empirical approach for understanding human behavior.


    Professor Chanel Meyers presenting to a class

    Major in Psychology

    Our students receive a solid grounding in the scientific method through hands-on research opportunities. Specifically, the psychology program endeavors to provide students with:

    • Broad exposure to the basic concepts, theories, findings, and ethical issues of psychology. 
    • Education in the scientific method including hands-on research opportunities.
    • Strong critical thinking and written communication skills, including the ability to evaluate and convey the evidence for claims regarding human behavior.
    • Applied experience through internship and practicum opportunities at partnering community organizations.
     
    Psychology major Lynn Nashawi presenting a research poster

    Honors in Psychology

    Honors students obtain valuable experience in designing, carrying out, and writing up a substantial project for the senior honors thesis. Both experiences lead to stronger faculty recommendations for future training.

    Honors Requirements


    Psychology student Sophia Mauelshagen

    Conducting Lab Research

    “Since the end of my sophomore year, I've been a research assistant in the Cognitive Dynamics Lab, where I've learned a great deal about the nitty-gritty behind the scenes of data collection! In addition, I am conducting research for a psychology honors thesis in the Social Cognition Lab, which has given me an abundance of knowledge about all the stages of research. Being a part of both labs has greatly enriched my educational experience and taught me about different ways to understand the world cognitively."

    —Sophia Mauelshagen, psychology major, '23


    Lab technician examining an MRI brain scan

    Get Real-World Experience

    Gain a competitive edge within your chosen career by developing practical job skills in the field. Psychology students can apply their skills and extend their learning beyond the classroom through faculty-led research projects, practicum placements, and other hands-on learning opportunities.

    Hands-on Learning


    Psychology major Aly Weir

    Preparing for Life after College

    “My experience in the psychology department has been filled with insightful professors, numerous opportunities to grow, and helpful peers. Through being a department peer advisor, I have been able to expand my skills and learn more about the avenues of the psychology major. I am thankful that through my experience in the department, I feel ready to take on life after graduation.”

    —Aly Weir, psychology major, '23


    Psychology Clinic consultation

    What You Can Do with a Psychology Degree

    A Psychology degree provides a solid foundation in the major research findings and theories within in the field of psychology and trains you to use an empirical approach toward understanding human behavior. You'll develop a diverse skill set that prepares you to work in many fields. Learn about possible careers and actual jobs our alumni have landed.

    Explore Careers


    Peer advising

    Advising and Academic Support

    Our peer advisors, graduate student advisors, and faculty advisors are available throughout the academic year to help you explore experiential learning opportunities, prepare for graduate school, or pursue your career goals. Make an advising appointment or take advantage of our drop-in hours.

    Departmental Advising and Support


    Scholarships and Awards

    Psychology majors can apply for many different scholarships and awards through the UO College of Arts and Sciences, which offers both financial need and academic merit scholarships. The Department of Psychology also offers funding through the Leona Tyler Scholarship and the Alice Thompson Scholarship.

    Explore Scholarships and Awards


    Events

    10 Annual UO Hip Hop Jam
    Nov30
    10 Annual UO Hip Hop Jam Nov 30 Global Scholars Hall
    7th Annual UO ©ritical A®t Show
    Nov30
    7th Annual UO ©ritical A®t Show Nov 30 Global Scholars Hall
    Let's Talk - Wednesdays 2-4PM @ BCC
    Dec6
    Let's Talk - Wednesdays 2-4PM @ BCC Dec 6 Lyllye Reynolds-Parker Black Cultural Center
    Special Collections Research Fellows Speaker Series: Zoey Kambour, 2023 Martha Thorsland Baker Fellow
    Dec21
    Special Collections Research Fellows Speaker Series: Zoey Kambour, 2023 Martha Thorsland Baker Fellow Dec 21
    Reading by Claire Luchette & Morgan Thomas
    Jan10
    Reading by Claire Luchette & Morgan Thomas Jan 10 Knight Library
    Special Collections Research Fellows Speaker Series
    Jan18
    Special Collections Research Fellows Speaker Series Jan 18
    New Media and Culture Certificate Open House
    Jan22
    New Media and Culture Certificate Open House Jan 22 Knight Library
    Wine Chat: "The Sisterhood: How a Network of Black Women Writers Changed American Culture"
    Jan25
    Wine Chat: "The Sisterhood: How a Network of Black Women Writers Changed American Culture" Jan 25 Capitello Wines
    Never Convicted, Never Prosecuted: How Traitors Wrote Their Way Out of Prison and Into Lost Cause Mythology
    Jan30
    Never Convicted, Never Prosecuted: How Traitors Wrote Their Way Out of Prison and Into Lost Cause Mythology Jan 30 McKenzie Hall
    Winter Career & Internship Expo
    Feb1
    Winter Career & Internship Expo Feb 1 Erb Memorial Union (EMU)